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1. When are the lifeguards on duty?

View the seasonal lifeguard schedule here.

About our Lifeguards...

2. What is the policy for dogs at the beach parks?

Folly Beach County Park An owner or person having control of any dog shall not permit the dog to be upon the public beach at any time between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. from May 1 through September 30 of each year. At all other times, the dog must be on a leash. 

Isle of Palms County Park Dogs are allowed on leash year round. 

Kiawah Beachwalker Park Dogs must be leashed at all times within Kiawah Beachwalker Park. The Town of Kiawah Ordinance identifies specific regulations for areas outside of the park:

View Town of Kiawah Pet Regulations

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1. Safety Awareness

• Please follow all South Carolina Department of Natural Resources boating regulations.
• Caution should be exercised at all public boat ramps. Tides, currents, and natural conditions can greatly affect usage of ramps at any time. Serious drop-offs may be present at low tide.
• Two boat landings, Shem Creek and WO Thomas, Jr, have a life preserver (PFD) loaner program. This service is provided by a private business, and PFD availability is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Please lock your vehicles and remove valuables from view. The Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission is not responsible for any lost, damaged or stolen property.
  
  

2. Selecting a Boat Landing

When choosing a boat landing, please be aware that the following boat landings generally have the highest traffic volume, especially on weekends and holidays:

• Folly Beach
• Wappoo Cut (West Ashley)
• Remley’s Point (Mount Pleasant)
• Shem Creek (Mount Pleasant)
• WO Thomas Jr. (North Charleston)
• Battery Island/Sol Legare (James Island)
• Riverland Terrace (James Island)

The following boat landings are not used as frequently as those listed above:

• Dawhoo Landing (Edisto Island)
• Steamboat (Edisto Island)
• Pierpoint on Church Creek, West Ashley
• Penny Creek, Willtown Area
• Gadsonville on the Copahee Sound, Mount Pleasant
• Paradise on the Wando River, Mount Pleasant

The following boat landings are suited more for canoes and kayaks; launching standard-sized or larger boats at these landings is not recommended:

• Penny Creek, Willtown Area
• Gadsonville on the Copahee Sound, Mount Pleasant
• Pierpoint, on Church Creek in West Ashley
• Willtown Bluff, Adams Run

3. Boat Landing Etiquette & Tips

• Boat and trailer maintenance should be done prior to your arrival at the landing.
• When arriving at a landing or preparing to launch, please be courteous of other boaters. Use the make-ready lanes to prepare your boat for launching. After launching, please move away from the ramp to allow other boaters to launch. If you need to tie off your boat after launching, please do not stay at the dock for an extended period of time.
• It is unlawful to utilize the parking spaces dedicated for vehicles with boat trailers for parking vehicles on weekends or holidays.
• Understand the rules and regulations of the water. South Carolina Department of Resources is a valuable resource.
• Before leaving the house, make sure you have everything you need for a great day on the water.
• Check your fuel levels.
• Make sure someone who is not going with you knows your plan.
• Make sure the boat is plugged before launching your boat.
• Practice makes perfect! Weekdays and after work are great times to work on boating skills.
• Vehicles should be locked and valuables removed from view. CCPRC is not responsible for any lost, damaged, or stolen property.
• Pack it in. Pack it out.

4. America's Waterway Watch

America's Waterway Watch, a combined effort of the Coast Guard and its Reserve and Auxiliary components, enlists the active participation of those who live, work, or play around America's waterfront areas.To report suspicious activity, please call the National Response Center at 877-249-2824. If there is immediate danger to life or property, Call 9-1-1, or call the Coast Guard on Marine Channel 16.

5. Cooper River Marina

Don't forget that the Cooper River Marina ships' store is there for all of your boating needs, clean restrooms, and cold beverages. Conveniently located two miles north of the Arthur Ravenel, Jr. Bridge and 15 minutes from historic downtown Charleston, the Cooper River Marina is a great facility for recreational and transient boaters.

Features

• Deep water slips: long-term up to 42-feet, LOA; transients up to 125-ft.
• No draft or height restrictions
• Easy harbor access
• 30 amp/120V service
• Floating concrete docks
• Shore side and slip side pump-out service
• Clean, climate-controlled captains lounge, laundry facilities, showers, and restrooms
• Ships store/convenience store
• Experienced staff
• Fax and email service, WiFi
• Competitive rates
• Ample free parking
• Docking assistance
• Up-to-the-minute local and national weather information
• Gated security
• Boat yard storage
• VHF Channel 16 monitoring

6. Pack It In, Pack It Out.

In an effort to keep the boat landings clean and safe for both humans and wildlife, we encourage a pack it in, pack it out program that to reduce impacts during their visit by remembering that what is brought to the boat landing should be removed from the boat landing at the end of each visit. Pack it in, pack it out is part of the Seven Principles of the Leave No Trace program. The principles provide guidance to enjoy our natural world in a sustainable way that avoids human-created impacts.

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1. Can I view photos of the camp sites?

Yes! We have photos of each campsite available in our Campground gallery. View photos...

2. What does full hook-up include?

Each full hook-up site has a sewer connection, water spigot, and 20/30/50 amp electric connections. These sites also have a picnic table and fire ring. Wireless internet is available throughout the campground.

3. Is cable available in the campground or cottages?

Cable is not available. Each cottage has satellite TV, and there is satellite TV in the Activity Center for cottage and campground guests to use.

4. Are golf carts allowed in the park?

Golf carts are permitted at the campground and on the roadways within James Island County Park. All golf cart drivers must have a valid driver’s license and insurance.

Golf carts are not permitted on park trails, paved or unpaved. Campers with golf carts are not permitted to drive their golf carts into the overflow or primitive areas.

5. How late can I check-in?

Check-in is anytime after 1 p.m. for campsites and anytime after 4 p.m. for cottages. The registration office closes at 8 p.m., and a ranger will be on duty all night to assist with late check-ins. There is a call box at the front of the registration building for guests to use to call the ranger.

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1. How do I get started climbing?

We recommend our Introduction to Climbing program as the best starting point, although you may also come in anytime to try it out.

Search for Upcoming Climbing Programs...

2. Do I need to take a lesson in order to climb?

No. You can boulder in our facility without any instruction, and auto belays are available after a brief orientation. If you are a competent belayer you may take our belay test to demonstrate that you know how to operate all the equipment safely during any of our normal hours.

The belay test requires that you demonstrate your ability to: 1. Put on your harness correctly. 2. Tie into the climbing rope with a figure-eight follow-through knot. 3. Operate the belay device safely. 4. Catch two falls.

When you demonstrate these skills in front of staff, you will be issued a belay pass to attach to your harness that will exempt you from having to be tested each time you come in. If you cannot demonstrate these skills, you will be asked to come back another time to try again, or take our lesson.

If you don’t know how to belay, we recommend that you attend one of our Intro to Climbing classes.

Search for Upcoming Climbing Programs...

3. What does the Introduction to Climbing Class cover?

The Introduction to Climbing Class covers:

• Putting on your climbing harness correctly
• Climbing gear, history, and terminology
• How to tie into the rope using a figure-eight follow-through knot
• How to operate the belay device safely to control the descent of your climbing partner
• Basic climbing techniques to make the experience easier and more enjoyable

Search for Upcoming Climbing Programs...

4. What is the difference between bouldering, top-roping, and lead climbing?

Bouldering is the act of low climbing, without the use of ropes and harnesses. It can be done on your own and does not require any prior instruction. The use of a spotter is highly recommended.

Top Roping is where the rope is already set up on the wall for you. The climber and belayer attach to opposite ends of the rope, and the climber ascends the wall, while the partner pulls up slack in the rope through a belay device.

Lead Climbing is a more advanced form of climbing and one that is commonly seen when climbing outside. In lead climbing, the climber brings their rope up the wall with them as they climb, clipping into the carabiners attached to the wall. Lead climbing requires advanced training, and a well-developed climbing ability (5.9 or above) to be comfortable leading.

5. What is “Belaying?"

Belaying is the act of managing the rope for your climbing partner to keep them safe. Whenever a climber ascends beyond 10 feet, they must have a belay partner who has been certified by The Climbing Wall staff. On top-rope, the belayer’s job is to take up slack in the rope as the climber progresses, so that they can lower them safely and slowly back down to the ground when they complete a climb.

6. What is the minimum age to climb?

There is no minimum age to climb, but there is a minimum weight to climb, which is 40 pounds. 

There is also no maximum age limit. 

7. What is the minimum age to belay?

You must be at least 14 or older to belay at The Climbing Wall. By age 14, most kids have both the physical capability and the mental maturity to handle the responsibilities of belaying, though be advised that staff can refuse to allow anyone to belay who does not demonstrate their ability to safely operate equipment.

8. Who can I call for more information?

Call the Climbing Wall staff at 843-762-9511.

9. Do I need a climbing partner?

Not necessarily. We have 12 auto-belays at the wall. If you want to top rope or lead climb, you will need to come with a partner who has passed one of our belay tests. 

10. How can I find a climbing partner?

The climbing networking site ClimbFind is an excellent resource for finding partners. You may also put up a notice on the bulletin board at The Climbing Wall.

Visit ClimbFind

11. Do I need to make a reservation to climb?

The Climbing Wall at James Island County Park is now available for climbing sessions by pre-registration. A limited amount of walk-up space may be available based on pre-registrations.

More about Groups at the Climbing Wall...

12. What should I wear and bring with me?

Wear comfortable clothing that will allow you to move freely. Avoid very short shorts, which tend to bunch up above the leg loops when you climb. People with long hair should bring an elastic band to tie it up, since it can be a safety hazard if it is long enough to fall into the belay device. It is also a good idea to bring a water bottle, though we also have a drinking fountain.

13. Can I bring my children to climb?

Absolutely! There is no minimum age to climb, but there is a minimum weight to climb, which is 40 pounds. 

Kids of all ages love to climb, though typically kids age 7 and up will have more stamina for a longer session. Please note that anyone under 18 years of age must have a waiver signed by their parent or legal guardian, so if you are bringing along nieces, nephews or friends of your children, you will need to have them sign one ahead of time for you to bring with you to the Wall.

Activity Waiver

14. I already know how to belay, but my friend doesn’t. Can I teach them?

No. Only The Climbing Wall employees may instruct. This ensures a uniform safety standard in our facility, which makes our staff and insurance company very happy.

15. Isn’t climbing really dangerous?

Climbing may initially seem to be a very dangerous activity, since it involves scaling vertical walls many feet into the air. In reality, climbing is a very accessible sport that can be enjoyed by almost anyone.

That said, there are real safety concerns that come with any vertical sport, and it is important to receive proper instruction on belaying before you get yourself into a dangerous situation.

Anytime you are in doubt, please ASK our staff - they love to offer (frequently unsolicited) advice for any situation.

Safety Tips...

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1. When are the dog parks closed for maintenance?

The off-leash dog parks are closed for routine maintenance for a couple of hours each week:

• Wannamaker: Closed each Monday until 10 a.m.
• James Island: Closed each Wednesday until 9 a.m
• Palmetto Islands: Closed each Wednesday until 9 a.m.

2. Is the water quality of the lake at James Island County Park monitored?

At Charleston County Parks, we responsibly and safely monitor our natural recourses within our park system. The dog park at James Island County Park is situated on a peninsula that is surrounded by a retention pond that does not drain into storm water sewers. In addition, riparian buffers were created along the retention pond border. These buffers help protect the water from the impact of the adjacent land. Our staff worked with the S.C. Department of Health & Environmental Control (DHEC) prior to opening the dog park. We have contracted the services of a pond management company to conduct water quality tests multiple times throughout the year to ensure that we meet DHEC standards for recreational use for dogs and people

3. Do you have a warning about alligators?

Alligators are a natural, normal, and important part of wetlands along the coast of South Carolina. Usually docile creatures, these reptiles can become aggressive as an unintended result of being fed by people. Once the alligator associates people with food, it must be killed. Remember: A fed gator is a dead gator. For this reason, the S.C. Dept. of Natural Resources can fine up to $2,000 and imprison anyone feeding, harassing, or approaching an alligator.

4. Is the dog park the only area where my dog can be off-leash?

Exercising, sniffing, and playing off-leash are important to a dog’s sense of well-being. Your county park system is proud to provide these facilities for our pooch patrons in several county parks. However, once your pet leaves the dog park, it must be leashed at all times.

A leashed pet is not likely to:

Stress songbirds & other wildlife.

Be harmed or killed by poisonous plants, venomous snakes, ticks, or vehicles.

Ruin the outing of another visitor who does not understand how lovable your pet is.

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1. What is the minimum age to apply for a job?

The minimum age to apply is 15 years old. In order to be a lifeguard or work at the Holiday Festival of Lights you must be at least 16 years old. In order to be a Camp Counselor or a Maintenance Assistant, you must be at least 18 years old due to FLSA requirements.

2. Will I be contacted regarding the status of my application?

Applicants who are selected for an interview will be contacted directly by the hiring division.

3. May I submit my resume by attaching it to an email?

You may send your resume via email for the position in which you are interested. However, a resume does not substitute in any way for the Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission Employment Application.

When completing an application through our online application submission process, you may upload your resume before submitting, or you can email it to humanresources@ccprc.com.

4. Do I need to create a new user name and password if I have applied with CCPRC in the past?

Our new online application does not require a login, therefore your information will not be saved, and you are required to complete a new application each time you apply for a position.

5. How can I find the specific position for which I want to apply?

You can find jobs by location, by type, by job category, or by position title. Each of these columns may be sorted. Search for open opportunities...

6. How will I know my application has been received?

Once you complete your application, you will receive an automatic response notifying you that your application has been received electronically.

7. How long after applying can I expect to hear from CCPRC?

Once you have submitted your application it will remain under review through the season. If you are selected for an interview, you will receive a call from a hiring supervisor.

8. What can I do if there are no positions currently available online?

Check back periodically to www.ccprc.com/jobs. If there is a position available, it will be posted.

9. May I apply for more than one position?

Yes. You may apply for as many positions as you are qualified, however you will need to complete a new application for each position.

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1. What will the tide be like for my visit?

NOAA tide charts are available through December 2009. Open tide charts...

2. What is the present water temperature at the Pier?

The National Oceanographic Data Center displays present water temperature data for the nearest tide station. Click here to view data.

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1. Geocaching & Letterboxing Policies

Definitions and guidelines for geocaching and letterboxing participation at CCPRC facilities is available
here.

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1. How do I purchase tickets?

Tickets may be purchased online in advance or at the gate. Visit the ticketing page for details.

2. Will I be able to visit with Santa?

Santa Claus is most definitely coming to town! Visits with Santa will be available on a first-come, first-served basis at the festival and during the day at the appointment-only Mingle with Kringle and Inclusive Visit with Santa.

3. How many times may I drive through?

You are welcome to drive around the light show as many times as you would like! Our visitors always spot something new on each trip.

4. Are there alternate routes to try to avoid the traffic?

Please consider alternate routes to the Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park, especially on busier, peak nights:

- From Folly Road (SC 171), turn right onto one of these roads: George L. Griffith Boulevard or Grimball Road. Then, turn right onto Riverland Drive, and then make a final left turn into the festival.

- The park is at 871 Riverland Drive.

See our admission page for a schedule of the peak nights for this year's Holiday Festival of Lights. 

5. Which nights are less busy?

To enhance the visitor experience and to help manage wait times, the Holiday Festival of Lights used historical attendance data to create Green, Yellow and Red nights.  Admission prices vary based on the night, and guests can save money by purchasing their tickets online in advance.  For more information see our festival admission page.

6. I'd like to bring my group out to the festival. Who should I call?

Please use the left-hand lane when approaching the gatehouse if you are driving a bus. We ask that tour buses call ahead with the park office at 843-406-6990 so that we can prepare for your arrival.

7. Do you rent wheelchairs?

The Holiday Festival of Lights is a three-mile driving tour with a self-guided walking portion to see more lights and other amenities. A wheelchair is available to check out at the park office in Winter Wonderland free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. A photo ID is required as a deposit to check out. Please call the park office at 843-406-6990 or ask a staff member for assistance.

Read on for more information on festival accessibility.

8. How do I buy tickets for the train?

Train tickets must be purchased at the train depot and are $4 per person. Children two & under may ride for free if sitting in the lap of an adult. No food, drinks, or pets are allowed on the train. The train runs nightly from 6–10 p.m. Ticket sales end at 9:40 p.m.

9. What forms of payment do you accept?

Cash and credit cards are accepted for admission and for purchasing concessions. You may also purchase advance admission online.

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1. How do I arrange a program?

Start by reviewing programs before completing a preliminary booking and information form. The program coordinator will review the form and contact you to discuss your needs. At that time, we will help you through the steps needed to confirm the date.

2. Which parks have group programs?

Our interpretation staff will meet you at nearly any county park. In some cases, they will come to your facility. Information about which parks are used for specific programs is listed under program descriptions.

3. At the park, are there bathrooms? Picnic areas? Bus parking?

County parks are designed to accommodate groups of all sizes and have bathrooms, picnic areas, and bus parking. Depending on the park, there may also be other amenities like food, drinks, outdoor showers, etc. When the coordinator contacts you as a result of the preliminary booking and information form, we will answer any logistical questions you may have about a specific park.

4. Can I bring multiple groups on one day?

Yes. Often the groups enjoy several programs in a “round robin” format with groups rotating through several programmers.

5. How many people can be in one program?

To keep the quality of the program high, we require a group size of no more than 25 people.

6. If I am bringing a group of children, do you require chaperones?

We require a 1:10 ratio of chaperone to children so for a group of 25, there would be 2 to 3 chaperones. We have found 2-3 chaperones is optimal as long as the chaperones are involved and understand their roles.

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1. How do I arrange a program?

Start by reviewing programs before completing a preliminary booking and information form. The program coordinator will review the form and contact you to discuss your needs. At that time, we will help you through the steps needed to confirm the date. Preliminary Form: Environmental & Social Studies

2. How much does it cost?

Cost varies according to program length. Generally speaking, school program costs range from $75 for a 30-minute program to $130 for a 90-minute program per group of 25 students. 

Each year the Charleston County Parks Foundation provides funding to offset the costs of field trips to a select number of Charleston County Public Schools. Funding is distributed on a first come, first served basis to schools that qualify. To apply to receive a free field trip, please submit the Information Request Form.

3. Which parks offer school programs?

Our education staff will meet you at nearly any county park. Information about which parks are used for specific programs is listed under program descriptions.

4. Can I leave feedback about a program?

Yes, please! We would love to hear about your school’s experience with our programs. Please complete a survey and let us know how your program went. Custom Program Survey

5. At the park, are there bathrooms? Picnic areas? Bus parking?

Your county parks are designed to accommodate school groups and have bathrooms, picnic areas, and bus parking. Depending on the park, there may also be other amenities like food, drinks, outdoor showers, etc. When the coordinator contacts you as a result of the preliminary booking and information form, we will answer any logistical questions you may have about a specific park.

6. Can our school bring multiple groups in one day?

Absolutely. Multiple groups enjoy several programs in a “round robin” format with groups rotating through several programmers.

7. How many students and chaperones can be in one program?

To keep the quality of the program high, we require a group size of no more than 25 students. We also require a 1:10 ratio of chaperone to students so for a group of 25, there would be 2 to 3 chaperones. We have found 2-3 chaperones and a teacher is optimal as long as the chaperones are involved and understand their roles.

8. Where can I find directions to the park?

Directions to any park can be found at our Park & Facility Directory.

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1. What should I bring?

• Sun protection: hat, glasses with a strap, and sunscreen
• Water bottle (1-3 quarts in plastic bottles with lids--no alcoholic beverages, please)
• Bag lunch for programs that run over the lunch hour and snacks
• Required medication for the day in its prescription packaging and the ability to self-medicate

2. What should I wear?

• Clothing for anticipated weather conditions, including rain gear (in cool temperatures, avoid cotton)
• Shoes that can get wet and will stay on your feet in the water (NO “flip-flops”)
• Swim suit/nylon shorts
• Sun protection: hat, glasses with a strap, and sunscreen

3. What if the weather forecast is bad?

Your activity will be held in an outdoor setting that is subject to sun, wind, rain, insects, etc. In general, these programs are held rain or shine; although lightning and/or high winds may cause cancellation. Please plan accordingly, and be prepared for anticipated conditions.

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1. Why are BMX bikes only allowed on Tuesdays?

BMX bikes are allowed at SK8 Charleston because this is an underserved group of people with no place to ride. BMX bikes are ONLY allowed on Tuesday because this is a much smaller population of riders than skateboarders.

2. Why are skateboards, in-line skates, and quads not allowed on Tuesdays?

Skateboards, in-line skates, and quads are not allowed on Tuesday for safety purposes. Skaters and BMX bike riders approach obstacles differently and have totally different lines. Separating the two groups will prevent collisions between riders and skaters.

3. What are the rules regarding pads and helmets?

Pads are recommended, and helmets are required. This park is entirely concrete and contains a number of skate obstacles designed for advanced ability levels. If you’re not falling, then you’re not charging hard enough!

4. My kids want to learn to skate, but I don’t know how and can’t teach them. Are there any resources out there?

In addition to local skate shops being a great resource, we are offering lessons at SK8 Charleston. See our lessons webpage for more details. 

Lessons Schedule

5. Can I have my child’s birthday party there?

Of course. This is definitely an area we plan to expand and we hope to offer Birthday Packages in the future.

6. Why do I have to pay an admission fee?

The county park’s business model is that we charge individual users a fee for our various parks and attractions. By charging a fee, we are able to decrease our reliance on tax dollars while offering nice facilities and amenities. The fee allows us to operate and maintain our parks, restrooms, furnishings, lights, etc.

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1. What are competitions like?

All climbers, including adults, youth, new climbers, and veteran climbers are invited to attend competitions. Generally, climbers get to choose what climbs they want to do. Each climb is worth a point value. The harder the climb, the greater the point value. Standings are based on points accumulated in a given amount of time, based on their five highest value climbs. Competitions are usually one-day events held on weekends. Past competitions for our Southeast Region have been in Charlotte, NC; Raleigh, NC; Jacksonville, FL; and August, GA.

More information on competition formats...

2. Can my child climb at The Wall outside of practice hours?

Part of their membership on the competitive teams entitles them to an Annual membership at The Climbing Wall. They may come in to climb whenever they like. Club members will need to pay for visits outside of scheduled practice times. Regardless of membership status, the minimum age for belaying at The Climbing Wall without an instructor is 14.

3. How do I register my child?

The Recreational Club is available for online registration on a first-come, first-served basis. The Competitive Program requires a climber tryout prior to enrollment.

4. How many children are on a team?

Each team is limited to 12 members in order to ensure that adequate supervision and high quality instruction is provided. Club level programs often fill well in advance, so act early for best availability. Team level programs require a climber interview.

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1. Is there a minimum commitment required to volunteer?

No, any time from 2 hours to 1,000 is very much appreciated.

2. Who can volunteer?

Families, businesses, groups, and individuals, ages 13 and older, are eligible.

3. How do I get started?

All potential volunteers must fill out an application and may be asked to provide references prior to volunteering with Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission.
[Open Application...]

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1. Are restrooms available?

Public restrooms are available at Wannamaker County Park.

2. Are dogs allowed on the trail?

Dogs are allowed, but must remain leashed at all times.

3. What is the "Pack It In, Pack It Out" rule?

If you pack it in, pack it out. Pack out all trash, leftover food, and litter. Leave No Trace Website

4. Where do I park?

Parking is available on-site near the trail, and vehicles must park in the designated area.

5. When might the trail be closed?

Riding or hiking on a wet trail will cause damage to the trail surface that results in erosion and widening. The Wannamaker North Trail is closed when heavy/excessive rain has resulted in fragile trail conditions so that the trail has time to dry out.